5 Ways to Check if Your Silk Saree is Original

The allure of the silk sarees is undeniable. Its luxurious drape, shimmering beauty, and rich cultural heritage make it a prized possession for many. But with the increasing popularity of silk sarees comes the unfortunate rise of imitations. So, how do you ensure you're investing in an original silk saree and not a cleverly crafted imposter? Well, here are 5 effective ways to check if your silk saree is original:

1. The Tactile Test

Silk is a natural protein fiber renowned for its softness and smoothness. Run your fingers gently across the fabric. Genuine silk should feel soft and supple, almost cool to the touch. It should have a slight grip, unlike synthetic fabrics that can feel slippery or stiff.

2. The Crinkle Test

Gently crumple a small portion of the saree between your fingers and then release it. Observe how the fabric reacts:

• Genuine Silk: Real silk has a natural elasticity. When crumpled, it will form soft wrinkles that quickly smooth out on their own. This is because the silk fibres have a natural "memory" that helps them retain their shape.
• Synthetic Fabric: Synthetic materials tend to hold creases more prominently and may take longer to regain their smooth form, or even retain a permanently wrinkled appearance.

3. The Burn Test

(Important Note: Always perform this test on a tiny, hidden portion of the saree, preferably from the loose end or an inconspicuous seam allowance.)

• Genuine Silk: Carefully hold a tiny thread of the saree (obtained from the hidden section) over a flame source (like a candle lighter) for a few seconds. Real silk will burn slowly with a faint, almost hair-like odour. It will leave behind a fine, black ash that crumbles easily when touched.
• Synthetic Fabric: Synthetic fibres tend to melt or shrink quickly when exposed to a flame. They may also emit a strong, unpleasant plastic-like smell, and leave behind a hard, beady residue instead of ash.

4. The Water Test

Place a small drop of water on the saree. Here's what to look for:

• Genuine Silk: Real silk absorbs water slowly due to its natural protein structure. The water droplet will take a few seconds to spread and eventually be absorbed by the fabric.
• Synthetic Fabric: Synthetic materials typically repel water. The water droplet will likely bead up and roll off the fabric surface.

5. The Visual Inspection

• Lustre: Real silk has a natural lustre that changes subtly depending on the angle of light. It should shimmer beautifully, not with a harsh, artificial shine.
• Weave: Look closely at the weave of the saree. Authentic silk sarees often have intricate, well-defined weaves. Synthetic fabrics may have a more uniform, machine-made appearance.
• Transparency: Hold the saree up to light. Genuine silk may have a slight translucency, but it shouldn't be completely see-through. Extremely transparent fabric is likely a synthetic blend.

Beyond the Tests

While these tests can be informative, it's always best to purchase your saree from a reputable seller who guarantees the authenticity of their products. Look for stores with a history of selling genuine silk sarees and positive customer reviews. Additionally, check for labels or certificates that verify the fabric content.